Conservative candidate Maria Hutchings actually polled a smaller share of the vote compared to when she stood in the last general election.

Mrs Hutchings appeared to be fighting back tears as she thanked opponents for a "clean campaign".

New Liberal Democrat MP Mike Thornton said his victory was "a great night for the Liberal Democrats nationally, a strong signal of support for Nick Clegg, an affirmation of our role working in the national interest within the coalition and a huge boost to our party's mission in government to build a stronger economy in a fairer society so that everyone can get on in life".

Ukip's Diane James hailed her second place as "a humungous political shock" that represented a "seismic shift" in British politics.

Labour were squeezed into fourth place with their candidate, with comedian John O'Farrell increasing the party's share of the votes marginally compared to 2010.